Cynicism is destructive. You look down on others and don’t notice their upside. You think or assume the worst. You consider, for example, ultra-conservatives to be too extreme, they don’t live in today’s world, they espouse their virtues and they think they’re better than us. You see the bad, and if you can’t see it you’ll invent it. Rather than view others as role models, you criticize them. Cynicism colors your view of mankind. You consider everyone basically evil and corrupt, that they aren’t truly created in the image of God. You’re too busy looking at their faults to look inward and see what your issues might be.

This attitude fails a core part of our humanity. It is imperative to see the greatness in others as well as in ourselves. Every one of us has phenomenal potential. We could change the world if we simply recognize our abilities and are willing to act upon them.

Believing in yourself is essential, yet your vulnerability can be destroyed in an instant. You must know someone whose friend, boss or teacher said the wrong thing and crushed them, making them have self-doubt for years. Self-confidence is more than just a human quality, it is at the core of what we do.

I was asked if I would change anything I had done in my life, given the chance. I said no. If I had changed anything I did in the past, I would have changed who I am today. I have my faults, but I like myself and still have the confidence to believe I can do almost anything I put my mind to.

Love who you are, be positive about who and what you can still become, and believe you can accomplish almost anything you genuinely have a desire to do.

Most people believe in some form of an afterlife. What will yours be like? The answer is: You will be treated in the same manner you treated others in this life.

You never know how much longer you have in this lifetime. Hurry to do more good for others, to treat others with respect and compassion. How you will exist in your afterlife depends on it.

Action will bring you more fortune than caution. Not taking action because you don’t want to risk failing can bring you sadness and regret. Your future lies in what you do today, not tomorrow. Control your life and your destiny. Do what you feel you want to or must do now – and let the colors of your soul lead you to the end of your rainbow.